E
Evangelical Lutheran Church in Vilnius with classic architecture on Vokiečių g. 20

Evangelical Lutheran Church In Vilnius

Vilnius, Lithuania

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Vilnius: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Vilnius, the Evangelical Lutheran Church stands as a testament to Lithuania’s enduring religious diversity and vibrant cultural heritage. Established in 1555 during the Protestant Reformation, it is not only one of the oldest Lutheran congregations in the region but also a living symbol of the German-speaking community’s influence in Vilnius. Over centuries, the church has experienced architectural transformations, political upheaval, and meticulous restoration, emerging today as both an active house of worship and a hub for cultural events. This guide offers comprehensive information for visitors—covering history, architecture, visiting hours, accessibility, travel tips, and more—so you can fully appreciate the unique story and atmosphere of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Vilnius (Lonely Planet, Lutheran World Federation, Vilnius Tourism).

Table of Contents

Early Foundations and the Reformation Era

The Evangelical Lutheran Church’s roots trace back to 1555, when Vilnius was a diverse metropolis in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The church emerged as a spiritual and social haven for the city’s German-speaking merchants and craftsmen, who settled on Vokiečių (German) Street. Supported by prominent Protestant noble Mikalojus Radvila the Black, the congregation reflected Vilnius’s tradition of religious tolerance and multiculturalism (Lonely Planet).

Architectural Evolution: From Gothic to Rococo

Originally constructed in the Gothic style, the Evangelical Lutheran Church later absorbed Baroque and Rococo influences, most notably during its 18th-century reconstruction. The current structure, whose cornerstone was laid in 1739, features a modest Baroque façade and a slender tower visible above the surrounding Old Town rooftops. The interior’s crowning glory is a Rococo altar crafted by Johann Christoph Glaubitz in 1741, adorned with swirling stucco, gilded ornamentation, and angelic sculptures (Vilnius Tourism).

The Church’s Role in Vilnius’ Religious Landscape

While Vilnius is renowned for its Catholic and Orthodox landmarks, the Evangelical Lutheran Church underscores the city’s religious pluralism. The congregation, historically composed of German, Lithuanian, and Polish Lutherans, contributed to Vilnius’s civic and cultural life through trade, education, and charitable works. The church also played a pivotal role in promoting Lithuanian literacy, notably through the publication of the first Lithuanian catechism (Lutheran World Federation).

Trials and Revivals: Political Upheaval and Restoration

The church weathered numerous challenges, from restrictions under Tsarist rule to outright suppression during Soviet occupation. In the latter period, the sacred space was divided by a concrete floor and repurposed as a workshop and basketball court, leading to decades of neglect (Lonely Planet). Following Lithuania’s independence in 1990, the church was restored—its concrete floor removed, interior features revived, and religious life renewed. Today, it hosts worship services, concerts, and ecumenical events, standing as a symbol of resilience and revival.


Visiting Information

Location and Getting There

  • Address: Vokiečių g. 20, Vilnius Old Town, Lithuania
  • Walking: The church is a short stroll from Vilnius Cathedral Square, Town Hall, and other central attractions.
  • Public Transport: Accessible via bus and trolleybus (nearest stops: “Rotušė” and “Vokiečių”) (Vilnius Public Transport).
  • Parking: Limited street parking is available; public parking lots are recommended due to Old Town restrictions.

Visiting Hours and Admission

  • Opening Hours: Generally open Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM; closed to visitors during Sunday worship (11:00 AM).
  • Admission: Free; donations are encouraged to support preservation.
  • Service Times: Sunday worship at 10:00 or 11:00 AM (check official website for updates).

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Access: Ramp at the main entrance; level interior. Some restroom facilities may have limited accessibility.
  • Assistance: Staff and volunteers are available to help visitors with special needs.

Guided Tours and Photography

  • Guided Tours: Available on request (Lithuanian and English); advance booking recommended via the parish office.
  • Self-Guided Visits: Informational brochures in multiple languages are provided.
  • Photography: Permitted for personal use outside of services. Flash and tripods discouraged; permission required for professional photography.

Facilities and Safety

  • Restrooms: Limited onsite; public facilities nearby.
  • Café/Shop: None onsite, but numerous eateries are close along Vokiečių Street.
  • Safety: The area is safe and well-patrolled; standard precautions advised.

Events, Community, and Cultural Life

The church hosts regular worship services, baptisms, weddings, funerals, and a vibrant calendar of cultural activities. Highlights include:

  • Concerts: Classical and choral concerts, especially during Christmas, Easter, and the annual “Night of Churches” event (Night of Churches).
  • Educational Workshops: On Lutheran heritage and Lithuanian history.
  • Community Events: Open days, guided tours during special events, and ecumenical gatherings.

Check the official parish website and Vilnius Events Calendar for current schedules.


Architectural and Artistic Highlights

  • Rococo Altar: Designed by Johann Christoph Glaubitz (1741), featuring ornate stucco and gilded angels.
  • Interior: Single-nave layout with pastel-painted walls, elegant windows, and original liturgical furnishings.
  • Organ: 18th-century Baroque instrument, occasionally used in concerts.
  • Martin Luther Monument: Erected in the courtyard for the 500th Reformation anniversary.

Etiquette and Best Visiting Times

  • Respectful Conduct: Modest attire is expected; shoulders and knees covered during services. Maintain quiet and refrain from photography during worship.
  • Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings for a tranquil experience; holidays and events for a vibrant atmosphere (may require advance registration).

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring:

  • Vilnius Cathedral and Cathedral Square
  • Town Hall (Rotušė)
  • St. Anne’s Church
  • Gates of Dawn
  • Jewish Quarter and Great Synagogue site
  • Theatre, Music & Cinema Museum

All are within walking distance of the church, offering a rich tapestry of Vilnius history (Vilnius Old Town).


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Vilnius?
A: Generally Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM. Closed to visitors during Sunday services.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free. Donations for restoration are appreciated.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, upon request in Lithuanian and English. Advance booking is advised.

Q: Is the church accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes; a ramp is available, with some limitations in restroom accessibility.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Yes, outside of services and without flash/tripods. Permission needed for professional use.


Contact Information

For current visiting hours, events, or to arrange a guided tour, contact the parish office directly.


Summary and Final Tips

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Vilnius offers a profound glimpse into Lithuania’s religious pluralism, architectural evolution, and resilient community spirit. As one of Vilnius’s oldest Protestant landmarks, the church invites visitors to experience its serene ambiance, marvel at its Rococo altar, and participate in vibrant cultural life. Plan your visit by checking the latest hours and events, and enrich your journey with guided audio tours through the Audiala app. Combine your stop with nearby attractions to explore the full spectrum of Vilnius’s heritage. For an educational, inspiring, and unforgettable experience, make the Evangelical Lutheran Church a key part of your Vilnius discovery (Vilnius Lutheran Parish, Vilnius Tourism, Audiala).


References


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Vilnius

Adam Mickiewicz Museum
Adam Mickiewicz Museum
Antakalnis Manor
Antakalnis Manor
Apostolic Nunciature To Lithuania
Apostolic Nunciature To Lithuania
Astronomical Observatory Of Vilnius University
Astronomical Observatory Of Vilnius University
Aušros Vartų Street
Aušros Vartų Street
Bernardine Cemetery
Bernardine Cemetery
Botanical Garden Of Vilnius University
Botanical Garden Of Vilnius University
Brzostowski Palace
Brzostowski Palace
Castle Hill
Castle Hill
Cathedral Of The Theotokos, Vilnius
Cathedral Of The Theotokos, Vilnius
Cathedral Square
Cathedral Square
Center For Health Education And Diseases Prevention
Center For Health Education And Diseases Prevention
Chapel Of Saint Alexander Nevsky, Vilnius
Chapel Of Saint Alexander Nevsky, Vilnius
Chapel Of Saint Casimir
Chapel Of Saint Casimir
Chodkevičiai Palace
Chodkevičiai Palace
Choral Synagogue Of Vilnius
Choral Synagogue Of Vilnius
Church And Monastery Of The Holy Trinity, Vilnius
Church And Monastery Of The Holy Trinity, Vilnius
Church Heritage Museum In Vilnius
Church Heritage Museum In Vilnius
Church Of All Saints, Vilnius
Church Of All Saints, Vilnius
Church Of Ascension In Vilnius
Church Of Ascension In Vilnius
Church Of Blessed Virgin Mary Of Consolation, Vilnius
Church Of Blessed Virgin Mary Of Consolation, Vilnius
Church Of Jesus The Redeemer, Vilnius
Church Of Jesus The Redeemer, Vilnius
Church Of Saint Stephen In Vilnius
Church Of Saint Stephen In Vilnius
Church Of St. Anne, Vilnius
Church Of St. Anne, Vilnius
Church Of St. Bartholomew, Vilnius
Church Of St. Bartholomew, Vilnius
Church Of St. Casimir, Vilnius
Church Of St. Casimir, Vilnius
Church Of St. Catherine
Church Of St. Catherine
Church Of St. Francis And St. Bernard
Church Of St. Francis And St. Bernard
Church Of St. George
Church Of St. George
Church Of St. Ignatius, Vilnius
Church Of St. Ignatius, Vilnius
Church Of St. John Bosco, Vilnius
Church Of St. John Bosco, Vilnius
Church Of St. Johns, Vilnius
Church Of St. Johns, Vilnius
Church Of St. Joseph The Betrothed
Church Of St. Joseph The Betrothed
Church Of St. Michael, Vilnius
Church Of St. Michael, Vilnius
Church Of St. Peter And St. Paul, Vilnius
Church Of St. Peter And St. Paul, Vilnius
Church Of St. Philip And St. Jacob, Vilnius
Church Of St. Philip And St. Jacob, Vilnius
Church Of St. Raphael In Vilnius
Church Of St. Raphael In Vilnius
Church Of St. Theresa
Church Of St. Theresa
Church Of The Assumption Of The Blessed Virgin Mary, Vilnius
Church Of The Assumption Of The Blessed Virgin Mary, Vilnius
Church Of The Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen Of Peace, Naujoji Vilnia
Church Of The Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen Of Peace, Naujoji Vilnia
Church Of The Discovery Of The Holy Cross, Vilnius
Church Of The Discovery Of The Holy Cross, Vilnius
Church Of The Holy Cross, Vilnius
Church Of The Holy Cross, Vilnius
Church Of The Holy Trinity In Trinapolis
Church Of The Holy Trinity In Trinapolis
Church Of The Immaculate Conception In Vilnius
Church Of The Immaculate Conception In Vilnius
Church Of The Providence Of God In Vilnius
Church Of The Providence Of God In Vilnius
Church Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus, Vilnius
Church Of The Sacred Heart Of Jesus, Vilnius
City Wall Of Vilnius
City Wall Of Vilnius
Contemporary Art Centre
Contemporary Art Centre
Didžioji Street
Didžioji Street
Divine Mercy Sanctuary In Vilnius
Divine Mercy Sanctuary In Vilnius
Dominican Church Of The Holy Spirit
Dominican Church Of The Holy Spirit
Embassy Of France, Vilnius
Embassy Of France, Vilnius
Embassy Of Germany, Vilnius
Embassy Of Germany, Vilnius
Embassy Of Japan, Vilnius
Embassy Of Japan, Vilnius
Embassy Of Ukraine, Vilnius
Embassy Of Ukraine, Vilnius
Euphrosyne Cemetery In Vilnius
Euphrosyne Cemetery In Vilnius
Europa Tower
Europa Tower
Evangelical Lutheran Church In Vilnius
Evangelical Lutheran Church In Vilnius
Evangelical Reformed Church In Vilnius
Evangelical Reformed Church In Vilnius
Frank Zappa Memorial
Frank Zappa Memorial
Gate Of Dawn
Gate Of Dawn
|
  Gediminas' Tower
| Gediminas' Tower
General Jonas Žemaitis Military Academy Of Lithuania
General Jonas Žemaitis Military Academy Of Lithuania
Great Synagogue Of Vilna
Great Synagogue Of Vilna
Green Bridge
Green Bridge
Holy Spirit Monastery, Vilnius
Holy Spirit Monastery, Vilnius
House Of The Signatories
House Of The Signatories
Imperial University Of Vilna
Imperial University Of Vilna
Ism University Of Management And Economics
Ism University Of Management And Economics
Jewish Cemeteries Of Vilnius
Jewish Cemeteries Of Vilnius
Kailis Forced Labor Camp
Kailis Forced Labor Camp
Kairėnai Cemetery
Kairėnai Cemetery
Kazimieras Simonavičius University
Kazimieras Simonavičius University
Keistuolių Teatras
Keistuolių Teatras
Laisves Avenue
Laisves Avenue
Lff Stadium
Lff Stadium
Lithuanian Academy Of Music And Theatre
Lithuanian Academy Of Music And Theatre
Lithuanian Art Museum
Lithuanian Art Museum
Lithuanian National Drama Theatre
Lithuanian National Drama Theatre
Lithuanian National Opera And Ballet Theatre
Lithuanian National Opera And Ballet Theatre
Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society
Lithuanian National Philharmonic Society
Lithuanian University Of Educational Sciences
Lithuanian University Of Educational Sciences
Liubarto Bridge
Liubarto Bridge
Łopaciński Palace In Vilnius
Łopaciński Palace In Vilnius
Lopacinskiai Palace (Bernardinai St.)
Lopacinskiai Palace (Bernardinai St.)
Lukiškės Mosque
Lukiškės Mosque
Lukiškės Prison
Lukiškės Prison
Lukiškės Square
Lukiškės Square
Martynas Mažvydas National Library Of Lithuania
Martynas Mažvydas National Library Of Lithuania
Mary Magdalene Monastery
Mary Magdalene Monastery
Mindaugas Bridge
Mindaugas Bridge
Minor Radvilos Palace
Minor Radvilos Palace
Museum Of Occupations And Freedom Fights
Museum Of Occupations And Freedom Fights
Mykolas Romeris University
Mykolas Romeris University
National Museum Of Lithuania
National Museum Of Lithuania
Naujoji Vilnia Train Station
Naujoji Vilnia Train Station
New Arsenal
New Arsenal
|
  Office Of The Chargé D'Affaires Of The People'S Republic Of China In The Republic Of Lithuania
| Office Of The Chargé D'Affaires Of The People'S Republic Of China In The Republic Of Lithuania
Oginski Palace
Oginski Palace
Old Arsenal
Old Arsenal
Old Believers Church In Vilnius
Old Believers Church In Vilnius
Old Theatre Of Vilnius
Old Theatre Of Vilnius
Oro Uostas
Oro Uostas
Orthodox Church Of Saint Catherine In Vilnius
Orthodox Church Of Saint Catherine In Vilnius
Orthodox Church Of Saint Euphrosyne In Vilnius
Orthodox Church Of Saint Euphrosyne In Vilnius
Orthodox Church Of St. Michael And St. Constantine
Orthodox Church Of St. Michael And St. Constantine
Orthodox Church Of St. Michael, Vilnius
Orthodox Church Of St. Michael, Vilnius
Orthodox Church Of St. Peter And St. Paul, Vilnius
Orthodox Church Of St. Peter And St. Paul, Vilnius
Orthodox Church Of The Holy Spirit, Vilnius
Orthodox Church Of The Holy Spirit, Vilnius
Our Lady Of The Sign Church
Our Lady Of The Sign Church
Pac Palace
Pac Palace
Palace Of The Grand Dukes Of Lithuania
Palace Of The Grand Dukes Of Lithuania
Paneriai Tunnel
Paneriai Tunnel
Pavilnys Regional Park
Pavilnys Regional Park
Pohulanka Theater
Pohulanka Theater
Presidential Palace Of Lithuania
Presidential Palace Of Lithuania
Protestant Cemetery, Vilnius
Protestant Cemetery, Vilnius
Pūčkoriai Manor
Pūčkoriai Manor
Pūčkoriai Outcrop
Pūčkoriai Outcrop
Pylimo Street
Pylimo Street
Raduškevičius Palace
Raduškevičius Palace
Radvila Palace
Radvila Palace
Railway Museum In Lithuania
Railway Museum In Lithuania
Rasos Cemetery
Rasos Cemetery
Rokantiškės Castle
Rokantiškės Castle
Saint Tikhon Of Zadonsk Chapel In Vilnius
Saint Tikhon Of Zadonsk Chapel In Vilnius
Sapieha Palace
Sapieha Palace
Savanorių Avenue
Savanorių Avenue
Seimas Palace
Seimas Palace
Senamiestis Eldership
Senamiestis Eldership
Slushko Palace
Slushko Palace
Šnipiškės Eldership
Šnipiškės Eldership
St. Alexander Nevsky Church
St. Alexander Nevsky Church
St. George Chapel In Vilnius
St. George Chapel In Vilnius
St. Nicholas Church, Vilnius
St. Nicholas Church, Vilnius
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church
St. Paraskeva Church
St. Paraskeva Church
Šuazeliai Palace
Šuazeliai Palace
Taiwan Representative Office In Lithuania
Taiwan Representative Office In Lithuania
Three Crosses
Three Crosses
Tiškevičiai Palace
Tiškevičiai Palace
Town Hall, Vilnius
Town Hall, Vilnius
Trakų Vokė Manor
Trakų Vokė Manor
Tuskulėnai Manor
Tuskulėnai Manor
Twinsbet Arena
Twinsbet Arena
Tyzenhaus Palace
Tyzenhaus Palace
Verkiai Palace
Verkiai Palace
Vileišis Palace
Vileišis Palace
Vilniaus Street
Vilniaus Street
Vilnius Academy Of Art
Vilnius Academy Of Art
Vilnius Airport
Vilnius Airport
Vilnius Bus Station
Vilnius Bus Station
Vilnius Castle Complex
Vilnius Castle Complex
Vilnius Cathedral
Vilnius Cathedral
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University
Vilnius Kenesa
Vilnius Kenesa
Vilnius Palace Of Concerts And Sports
Vilnius Palace Of Concerts And Sports
Vilnius St. Joseph Seminary
Vilnius St. Joseph Seminary
Vilnius Town Hall Square
Vilnius Town Hall Square
Vilnius Tv Tower
Vilnius Tv Tower
Vilnius University
Vilnius University
Vilnius University Central Campus
Vilnius University Central Campus
Vilnius University Faculty Of Communication
Vilnius University Faculty Of Communication
Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos
Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos
Vilnius University International Business School
Vilnius University International Business School
Vilnius University Planetarium
Vilnius University Planetarium
Vinco Kudirkos Square
Vinco Kudirkos Square
Vingis Park
Vingis Park
Vokiečių Street
Vokiečių Street
White Bridge
White Bridge
Wilno Belarusian Museum
Wilno Belarusian Museum
Wroblewski Library Of The Lithuanian Academy Of Sciences
Wroblewski Library Of The Lithuanian Academy Of Sciences
Youth Theater
Youth Theater
Žalgiris Stadium
Žalgiris Stadium
Zamelis Synagogue
Zamelis Synagogue